REAL MADRID are understood to be tracking the availability of Andrea Pirlo next summer, but join a host of interested clubs from the Premier League.

The playmaker is attracting plenty of interest this season with his contract expiring with Juventus next summer, especially from the Premier League with the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham after his services.

Pirlo's main criteria is regular playing time and sees Madrid as a club where that may prove more difficult.

But Real Madrid have now joined the race, with Carlo Ancelotti having a 'close working relationship' with the veteran midfielder from their time shared at Milan.

However, Pirlo's main criteria is regular playing time and sees Madrid as a club where that may prove more difficult.

The Italy international was linked with a move to the Bernabeu in the summer, but nothing materialised due to their signing of Asier Illarramendi.

Former Bianconeri captain Gianluca Vialli has also added fuel to the Tottenham rumour, suggesting they are in the driving seat for the 34-year-old's signature.

Gianluca Vialli intensifies transfer to Tottenham [GETTY]

“I’ve heard rumours from England that there has been contact between Pirlo and Tottenham for next season,” said the ex-Old Lady striker.

Juventus remains Pirlo's number one team and will stay there if he is promised first-team football, but is prepared to move abroad to another team of Juve's calibre.

“Juve are my priority, but I don’t want to be a weight for anybody. The years go by, but it is not written that I have to stay here just because I am called Pirlo," he told the Gazzetta dello Sport.

“If I had to change, perhaps I’ll go abroad. I’ll certainly continue playing for a high level team.”